THE STORY:

Hello friends and family,

I began training this past November for the LA Marathon that is taking place on March 20th, 2011. Yes, a marathon... 26.2 miles, CRAZY! Some people run for fun, but I have chosen to run for a cause. There are hundreds of great causes out there, and I wish I could support them all but I have dedicated my time, blood, sweat and tears to support the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America. In the United States it is estimated that over 70,000 people have sickle cell disease. About 1,000 babies are born with the disease each year in America. Sickle cell disease refers to a group of inherited blood diseases which can cause severe pain, damage to vital organs and for some, death in childhood or early adulthood. Sickle cell disease affects the oxygen-carrying protein inside the red blood cells called hemoglobin.

Most of you had the GREAT pleasure of knowing one of my best friends, Trevon Moore, who battled with sickle cell all his life. I met Trevon in 6th grade and knew then, that he was something special. Throughout the years we became the greatest of friends. His strength, courage and pure joy for life was so contagious. His smile and laugh could light up the darkest of rooms. Even though he was sick, you would never know! He had such a passion for life and dreamed BIG! This past year was very tough for him, in and out of the hospital and in a lot of pain. During my many visits to the hospital, Trevon would bring out the goofball in me. He would always laugh at my dumb jokes and crazy antics. And he lovedddd ice-cream. He would tell me the doctor said it'd make him feel better (surrrrre). Even during these tough times, Trevon never gave up. He would always say, "When I get better, I want to..." He had big plans!

Trevon knew that I was running for Sickle Cell, and although he thinks I'm crazy, was very appreciative. I would always call him to complain that I didn't feel like going for a run, but somehow he always talked me into just doing it. He'd say, "Just do it, like Nike." I would always text him after,... "8 miles done!" and all he would say is "you're nuts" :)

On a rainy Sunday morning, Jan 2nd, I completed week 5 of training and did my 10 mile run (in the rain, it sucked!). Shortly after...I got the devastating news that he has passed away. My heart shattered into a million pieces. It was a pain that I have never felt before. My best friend was gone, how could this be? I just video chatted with him before I went to bed the night before. So many memories, so many laughs, so many smiles.

Although my heart is still broken, I know Trevon is now free of pain and suffering and smiling on all of us! He truly was a special soul that touched so many of us in a way that words cannot express. He will always be here with us and will give us the strength we need to get through the hard times. Tre will be here with us during the joyous times to share all of the laughs and smiles. And I know Trevon will be there pushing me along throughout the rest of my training and especially during the marathon itself. I wouldn't be able to do it without him! Trevon is my best friend, my hero, my guiding light, my angel.

I understand that asking for funds in a difficult time may be a challenge, so ANY amount is greatly appreciated! If monetary donations aren't available I ask that you donate blood at your local blood bank. Blood donations can not only help Sickle Cell patients but can help save the lives of others!

I hope you will visit this link from time to time to track my fundraising and training progress. Thank you so VERY much for all your support!

Mary Lea Wagner

DONATION: $100

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